October 17, 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
Create a one-of-a-kind pair of sterling silver earrings, complete with textured geometric shapes and a decorative spiral that moves as you wear it.
What you’ll do
Start with sterling silver sheet and wire, then shape, texture, and finish your own pair of earrings from scratch. Choose from a triangle, oval, or rectangle for the earring body, customize the proportions, and create a silver spiral detail that adds movement to the finished design.
You’ll cut and texture the silver, form the spirals and earring wires by hand, and use a small butane torch to create the balled tips. By the end of class, your earrings will be finished and ready to wear!
What you’ll learn
How to cut, shape, and sand sterling silver sheet
How to use hammers to texture the earring body
How to polish, finish, and stain the silver using Dremel rotary tools and other techniques
How to use pliers to form a decorative spiral
How to form an earring wire
How to use a butane torch to create a balled wire tip
How to work harden, polish, and finish earring wires
Great for: Novices–no prior metalsmithing experience needed!
Instructor: Kay Rashka is a local metalsmithing instructor with more than 15 years of teaching experience, including at the Madison Bead Show and Milwaukee Bead & Button Show. She is also the author of Bead Meets Metal.
Schedule
October 17, 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
Cost: $135
Includes sterling silver sheet, silver wire, and written instructions. Class minimum is 3 students; maximum is 6 students.
What to bring: Please wear cotton work clothes and/or an apron and closed-toe shoes. If you have long hair, it will need to be tied back; hair ties will be available from the instructor.